The 5 New Trucks Still Under $35k (And The 5 Used Trucks We'd Probably Buy Instead) - Jalopnik

Jalopnik argues that the “cheap pickup” era is effectively over, largely due to inflation and import tariffs that have pushed prices up over the last decade. With a budget ceiling of $35,000, the publication says only five new trucks still meet the threshold. It also frames the decision as a financial tradeoff: even with good credit and a down payment, monthly payments for these models can top $500, plus insurance and depreciation. While some stripped-down concepts are hinted at—such as Slate or Ford’s planned Fathom—Jalopnik notes these are still perilously close to $30,000. The article then promises comparisons against used alternatives that could do the same job for less.